Jamie Whincup, a prominent figure in V8 Supercars, has recently sold a remarkable Holden V8 Supercar known as ‘Kate,’ which he considers the “greatest Holden race car of all time.” This Holden Commodore V8 Supercar holds the distinction of being the second-most successful V8 Supercar in history. Whincup, a seven-time V8 Supercars champion, achieved a record-breaking 28 race wins with ‘Kate,’ making it the most successful single chassis in the championship’s history at the time.
During Whincup’s ownership, ‘Kate’ triumphed in various races, with a particularly emotional victory at the 2012 Adelaide 500, which he holds dear as the most significant win of his career, coming shortly after the passing of his father. The car’s success extended to Whincup’s fourth Bathurst 1000 win and contributed to his third and fourth championships, solidifying its status as a highly sought-after vehicle in V8 Supercars and Bathurst history.
The undisclosed sale of ‘Kate’ to Sydney-based Muscle Car Warehouse adds another legendary vehicle to their collection, alongside cars driven by other V8 Supercars icons like Craig Lowndes and Larry Perkins. Whincup’s decision to part ways with ‘Kate’ was motivated by a desire to see the car utilized and appreciated, rather than sitting idle in his garage. The sale marks the end of an era for Whincup, who had acquired the car from his team, Triple Eight Race Engineering, after its retirement in 2012.
Reflecting on the sale, Whincup expressed mixed emotions but emphasized the importance of ‘Kate’ finding a new home where it can be showcased and enjoyed by enthusiasts. The car’s relocation to Sydney will allow it to be displayed alongside another of Whincup’s winning vehicles, enhancing the historical significance of Muscle Car Warehouse’s collection.
Despite relinquishing ownership of ‘Kate,’ Whincup hinted at a potential desire to reacquire the car in the future. For now, he is content with the car being in the right hands and appreciated by fellow enthusiasts. The legacy of ‘Kate’ lives on as one of the most successful V8 Supercars, a testament to Whincup’s remarkable career in the sport.
The sale of ‘Kate’ marks a significant chapter in V8 Supercars history, underscoring the enduring legacy of Holden in motorsport. Whincup’s decision to part ways with this iconic vehicle opens up new possibilities for its continued appreciation and preservation within the racing community.
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